Geothermal power is chronically underdeveloped. Globally, installed
capacity is only about
12.8 gigawatts (GW), or roughly a mere 6.5% of a potential 200 GW.
Surprisingly, the United States leads the international market, boasting a
grand total of 3.5 GW installed capacity, or roughly 21% of its 16.5 GW
potential. (For perspective, the U.S. Geological Survey equates U.S. potential
as “equivalent to 16 large nuclear power plants or dozens of coal fired power
plants”). While Oregon has the potential to support around 2,200 MW
of geothermal generating capacity, its installed capacity is a mere 35
MW. These numbers are all estimates, of course; determining the true
potential requires site analyses and may vary with technology.

Geothermal energy is not without its problems. Like other
renewable sources, it requires high
upfront investments. A 2013
news report noted Oregon’s geothermal resources can be located far from
transmission lines and can face environmental opposition. Geothermal energy is
low in emissions, but it can present environmental risks. For example, the Renewable
Northwest Project notes proper siting is critical to minimize the risk of
groundwater contamination. (The
Union of Concerned Scientists also discusses this concern and notes no
geothermal plant has caused contamination in the U.S.)

However, geothermal offers a host of benefits worth
considering, too. In addition to being naturally low in emissions, geothermal
projects rely a renewable resource—heat from the earth’s core. Additionally, the
Renewable
Northwest Project reports that geothermal projects provide local jobs and
support local economies and tax bases. The Geothermal
Energy Association proclaims geothermal has benefits over other renewables,
because it uses less land than wind or solar (404 square miles versus 1335 or
3237, respectively) and it emits fewer lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions than
solar (by a factor of four). (Lifecycle emissions include both direct and
indirect emissions; solar power does not directly produce greenhouse gases, but
constructing the photovoltaic panels creates indirect emissions).

Geothermal provides a renewable, local power for Oregon. It
deserves more attention from utilities and investors. In the meantime,
individuals can take matters into their own hands. The Energy Trust of
Oregon can help private landowners take advantage of geothermal energy, by
providing financial incentives for small geothermal projects (less than 20 MW
nameplate capacity) that can connect to PGE or Pacific Power.